Quick Facts
- Population: 9,421 (2020 Census)
- County: Deer Lodge (consolidated city-county government)
- Founded: June 25, 1883
- Elevation: 5,335 ft
- Known For: Historic copper smelting, Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, gateway to outdoor recreation
- Nearby Landmarks: Anaconda Range, Georgetown Lake, Discovery Ski Area, Continental Divide
- Fun Fact: The Washoe Smelter Stack, at 585 feet tall, was once the tallest masonry structure in the world and remains a visible landmark of Anaconda's copper legacy
Notable People & Pop Culture
- Marcus Daly – Copper King and founder of Anaconda who built the town around his copper smelting empire
- Lucille Ball – Legendary actress and comedian who lived in Anaconda briefly as a child
- Return to Lonesome Dove – This popular TV miniseries filmed scenes in Anaconda, showcasing the town's historic western architecture
Top Things to Do in Anaconda
- ✧ Old Works Golf Course – Tee off on a Jack Nicklaus signature course built atop reclaimed mining land, featuring distinctive black slag sand bunkers
- ✧ Washoe Theater – Step back in time at this stunning Nuevo Deco theater built in 1936, still showing films in its original historic splendor
- ✧ Georgetown Lake – Experience premier fishing, boating, and ice fishing at this scenic mountain lake just minutes from town
- ✧ Discovery Ski Area – Carve down 15 downhill trails at this family-friendly ski resort offering terrain for all skill levels
Local Industry & Economy
Anaconda's economic story is one of remarkable transformation. Founded as a company town for the Anaconda Copper Mining Company, the city was once dominated by what became the world's largest non-ferrous processing plant. The massive Washoe Reduction Works employed thousands and shaped the region's economy for nearly a century. When Atlantic Richfield Company closed the smelter in 1980, Anaconda faced economic challenges but responded with resilience and innovation. Today, the economy has diversified significantly, with tourism and recreation playing increasingly important roles. The Jack Nicklaus-designed Old Works Golf Course, built on reclaimed industrial land, symbolizes this transformation. Downtown Anaconda now features a growing business district with coffee shops, boutiques, restaurants, a brewery, and specialty stores. While honoring its industrial heritage, Anaconda has successfully pivoted to embrace its natural assets, becoming a gateway for outdoor recreation that draws visitors year-round to experience its mountain lakes, ski areas, hiking trails, and historic charm.
History & Heritage
Anaconda's rich history began with copper and the ambitions of Marcus Daly, one of Montana's famous "Copper Kings." On June 25, 1883, Daly filed a town plat for what he initially wanted to call "Copperopolis," but the name was already taken by another Montana mining town. Instead, he accepted "Anaconda," and a company town was born. The Anaconda Copper Mining Company built the massive Washoe Reduction Works to process ore from the nearby Butte mines, creating what would become the world's largest non-ferrous processing plant. The town's fortunes were tied to copper, and Daly even lobbied unsuccessfully to make Anaconda Montana's capital, losing to Helena in the 1894 referendum.
The early 1900s saw political intrigue when the Socialist Party won control of the city government in 1903, marking their first victory west of the Mississippi. However, the company systematically undermined their power. By 1919, the Washoe Reduction Works boasted a 585-foot smokestack—then the tallest masonry structure in the world. For decades, Anaconda thrived as a smelting center until 1980, when Atlantic Richfield Company closed the operation, ending nearly a century of copper processing.
The city reinvented itself in the following decades. In 1977, Anaconda joined with Deer Lodge County to form a consolidated city-county government. Environmental cleanup efforts transformed the former industrial site into the acclaimed Old Works Golf Course. Today, Anaconda proudly preserves its architectural treasures, including the Washoe Theater, Club Moderne, and Hearst Free Library—all listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Butte-Anaconda Historic District stands as a testament to the region's industrial heritage and architectural significance, while the city continues to write new chapters in its storied history.
Seasonal Activities & Local Events
- Spring/Summer: Hiking mountain trails, fishing at Georgetown Lake, golfing at Old Works Golf Course, mountain biking, and exploring the Pintler Scenic Loop
- Fall/Winter: Skiing at Discovery Ski Area, snowmobiling on hundreds of miles of groomed trails, ice fishing at Georgetown Lake, and hunting in the surrounding national forests
- Annual Events: Winter Getaway dart tournament (largest regional tournament in Montana), Lost Creek Raceway events featuring drag racing competitions
Getting There & Nearby Destinations
Anaconda is conveniently located along Montana Highway 1, also known as the Pintler Scenic Loop, and is just a short drive from Interstate 90. The city sits approximately 26 miles from Butte and 120 miles from Missoula. For air travelers, Bowman Field offers a small public airport three miles northeast of town, while the nearest commercial service is available at Bert Mooney Airport in Butte. Anaconda's strategic location places it halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, making it an ideal stop on a Montana adventure. Nearby destinations include the historic mining city of Butte (26 miles), Philipsburg (30 miles), and the relaxing Fairmont Hot Springs (15 miles). The surrounding Deer Lodge National Forest offers endless opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Where to Stay in Anaconda
Anaconda offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs. The Forge Hotel, BW Signature Collection, stands as the city's newest lodging option with 74 stylish guest rooms, family suites, an indoor pool, and modern amenities. For those seeking a more intimate experience, the historic Hickory House Inn and centrally located Marcus Daly Motel provide comfortable stays within walking distance of downtown attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate 7 Gables Resort at Georgetown Lake, where guests can snowmobile from their doorstep in winter or enjoy lakeside activities in summer. The Copperhead Lodge offers modern accommodations, while Pintler's Portal Hostel provides budget-friendly options. For a luxury experience, nearby Fairmont Hot Springs Resort features natural hot springs, pools, and full resort amenities. Additionally, numerous vacation homes and cabins around Georgetown Lake cater to those seeking a more private retreat.